May 1, 2012

Hooker Wastes a Golden Chance

Confederate General Robert E. Lee, commanding the Army of Northern Virginia, rode his gray mount Traveller into the clearing around the burning Chancellor mansion at 10 a.m. on May 3, 1863. The clearing was packed with Lee's triumphant legions, who had just driven the Army of the Potomac from its position. At the moment of triumph they beheld their beloved chieftain, who, they felt, had personally brought them this victory. The Chancellor plain resounded with their thunderous cheers.

Lee, not content with having driven the enemy from Chancellorsville, was already planning the next phase of the attack. For the next two hours he allowed his men some much-needed rest while he made preparations to reopen the offensive. Shortly after noon, he learned that Union Maj. Gen....

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